How To Regulate Your Nervous System

Life is one big long stream of deadlines, alerts and obligations. Our bodies are amazing machines but the nervous system is the control centre that keeps everything running smoothly. When it gets overwhelmed our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing can all suffer. Learning how to regulate nervous system behavior is one of the most valuable things you can do to feel calmer, think more clearly and face life’s challenges with confidence.

What Is The Nervous System?

Looking after your nervous system starts with understanding what it is. This intricate network of nerves and cells is your body’s own information superhighway that keeps your brain and body in sync.

It’s the system that sends messages between your brain, spinal cord and every part of your body. From controlling your heartbeat to guiding your thoughts, emotions and movement — it’s involved in almost everything you do. Without it your body couldn’t function.

Why Do You Need To Control It?

Your nervous system affects so much more than just how you respond to stress — it’s at the centre of your overall health. When it’s regulated you can handle daily challenges without feeling overwhelmed.

A regulated nervous system means you feel steady and alert but not overstimulated. You can handle stress without it overwhelming you, sleep well at night and have stable energy. But when it’s stuck in “fight or flight” mode all the time it can cause ongoing problems like anxiety, poor sleep and lower immunity.

Knowing how to regulate nervous system balance and how to get into rest and digest mode with the parasympathetic nervous system helps prevent these long-term effects. The Vagus nerve is critical here as it is present all around your body and is a major part of the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for the Rest and Digest response.

What Are The Parts Of The Nervous System?

The nervous system is made up of different parts, each doing their own thing to keep you in top shape. Once you understand them you’ll see why they need to be cared for.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The CNS is the brain and spinal cord. It processes information and sends instructions to the body, controlling movement, thoughts and automatic functions like breathing.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The PNS connects the CNS to the rest of the body. It carries sensory information and manages automatic functions like digestion and heart rate through its autonomic branch.

What Are The Signs Of An Unbalanced System?

When the nervous system is under stress it shows up in your body, emotions and mind. Recognise these warning signs early and you can rebalance before they get out of hand.

• Anxiety – A busy mind, racing heart and constant worrying means your system is in overdrive.

• Depression – Low energy, no motivation and emotional flatness means your system is in low power mode.

• Insomnia – Too much stimulation makes it hard to switch off, resulting in disrupted or poor sleep.

• Fatigue – Continuous stress signals can drain your energy reserves leaving you tired even after rest.
  
  

How To Calm It Down

Knowing how to regulate nervous system activity can make a big difference to your wellbeing. Small daily habits can create lasting change.

Practice Mindfulness And Meditation

Mindfulness is the best way to calm the nervous system. Make it a daily habit and it will amplify the benefits.

Our Rest and Digest Queen B Mindfulness Kit includes Australian-made Mini Brass Beehive candle holders and eight Little Lights candles in a wooden box — each with over an hour’s burn time. Perfect for yoga, meditation or just sitting quietly with a soft glow.

For a gentle sensory experience, Gumleaf Essentials Meditation Essential Oil Blend combines geranium, lime, marjoram, patchouli, cedarwood and ylang ylang. Pair it with a cup of Better Tea Anxietea, a herbal infusion with licorice root to calm the nerves, or Love Tea Organic Calming Tea, a blend of chamomile, lemon balm, lavender and mint for body and mind relaxation.

Exercise Regularly

Movement helps regulate the nervous system by lowering stress hormones and releasing happy brain chemicals. Whether you like yoga, Pilates or light stretching, having the right equipment makes it easier to stick to it. Our Rest and Digest Yoga Bundle includes a Jute and Rubber eco friendly Yoga Mat, Carry Strap, Extra Long Strength Strap and Cork Yoga Blocks — perfect for a home practice.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is when the nervous system repairs and resets. Create a peaceful environment and it will improve sleep quality. The Rest and Digest Mulberry Silk Pillowcase is a cool, smooth surface that’s gentle on skin and hair, and the Restore Eye Pillow can be used hot or cold to release tension.

For a bedtime routine, try The Base Collective Beauty Sleep Spray, Wash, Balm and Magnesium Oil Spray to help you cope with stress, or unwind with a warm bath using Magnesium Bath Salts. If racing thoughts keep you up, Bach Original Flower Remedies Rescue Sleep Spray is a natural option, and Love Tea Organic Sleep Tea is the perfect companion for the evening. 

Eat A Balanced Diet

Your diet affects the nervous system. Herbal teas are a simple and delicious way to feed it daily. Better Tea Hemp Relief has magnesium and zinc for calm, Better Tea Gut Feelings for digestion and mood and Love Tea Organic Immunity Tea has echinacea, ginger and rosehip to keep you feeling robust.

What Are Some Natural Supplements To Help Balance It?

Sometimes your nervous system needs a little extra help. These nutrients and herbs are calming:

• Ashwagandha – An adaptogen that reduces stress and builds resilience.

• Magnesium – Relaxes muscles, calms the mind and helps sleep.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Supports brain health and mood regulation.

• B Vitamins – Essential for nerve function and energy.

From Overwhelm To Balance

Understanding how to regulate nervous system health allows you to move from constant stress to steady calm. With mindfulness, movement, quality rest, nourishing food and natural support, you can keep your mind and body working in harmony.

At Rest and Digest we believe in simple, effective rituals that calm from the inside out – so you can get back to your best self.